Applying the theory of information worlds within a health care practise in Finland

Abstract

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to increase understanding about value creation to families in childhood obesity care in multiprofessional collaboration in an integrated care pathway (ICP).Design/methodology/approach– The qualitative case study involves the ICPs of two Finnish University Hospital districts. The empirical data, collected between 2009 and 2012, consists of semi-structured interviews of 30 health professionals in primary and special health care, of three children and their mothers, a family questionnaire (n=13) complemented with care path instructions and memos of an ICP work group.Findings– The findings indicate that organisational culture confirms boundaries which hinder transfer of information and sharing of knowledge between organisations and professional groups. The concepts of Chatman’s theory of everyday life information seeking complemented with the concepts of Burnett’s and Jaeger’s theory of information worlds are applicable to describe aspects of organisational culture on patient value creation in the ICP for obese children.Research limitations/implications– The data of the patients and families were limited. Interviews were completed with a questionnaire which has its limitations in qualitative research. In future studies, e.g., families’ focus-group interviews could bring new insights.Practical implications– The practise of information transfer between Finnish primary and special health care need changes. Modern information technology, e.g., videoconference could be used to increase family involvement in the value creation and the environment should be more supportive for healthy lifestyle.Originality/value– The study is one of the first which empirically applies Chatman’s and Burnett’s and Jaeger’s theories in a work-related setting.